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Cranberry Fluff Salad

Cranberry Fluff Salad
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Cranberry Fluff Salad is a festive and easy-to-make dish featuring a delightful blend of tart cranberries, sweet mini marshmallows, creamy whipped cream, juicy pineapple chunks, and crunchy nuts. This bright and fluffy salad adds a colorful, refreshing touch to any holiday table, perfect as a side, dessert, or snack. Its simple preparation, nostalgic flavors, and versatile variations make it a beloved holiday favorite for families and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruits and Fresh Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh or thawed frozen cranberries
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks (canned or fresh, drained)
  • Zest of 1 orange or 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

Dairy and Sweeteners

  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • 2 cups whipped cream
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional, adjust to taste)

Nuts and Add-ons

  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cranberries: Rinse the fresh cranberries thoroughly and remove any stems or blemishes. For a softer texture, simmer cranberries lightly with orange juice and sugar until they start to soften, then let them cool completely before mixing.
  2. Combine Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together the whipped cream and mini marshmallows until evenly distributed, creating a creamy, fluffy foundation.
  3. Add Pineapple and Nuts: Drain the pineapple chunks and gently stir them along with the chopped nuts into the whipped cream mixture to maintain fluffiness.
  4. Mix in Cranberries and Citrus: Fold in the cooled cranberries and fresh orange zest or juice, which brightens the salad and enhances the cranberry flavor.
  5. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least two hours to allow flavors to meld and texture to set. Serve cold for the best experience.

Notes

  • Use fresh cranberries or properly thawed frozen cranberries for best tartness and texture.
  • Fold ingredients gently to keep the whipped cream fluffy and avoid overmixing.
  • Chill the salad thoroughly to deepen flavors and firm up the texture.
  • Adjust sweetness carefully by tasting as you go, to balance the tartness.
  • Lightly toast nuts in a dry pan before adding to enhance flavor and crunch.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to three days; avoid freezing.
  • Serve garnished with chopped fresh mint or whole cranberries for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry fluff salad, holiday salad, cranberry dessert, easy holiday side, fluffy fruit salad, Thanksgiving side dish, Christmas salad, festive salad

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/cranberry-fluff-salad/